Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes take the classic sloppy joe sandwich and turn it up a notch by serving it on thick, buttery Texas toast. The result is a hearty, flavorful, and messy sandwich that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a casual gathering with friends and family.

With a rich, savory beef mixture smothered in a tangy tomato sauce and nestled between golden slices of Texas toast, these sandwiches are comfort food at its finest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thick, buttery Texas toast holds the filling perfectly
Savory, slightly sweet, and tangy beef mixture
Quick and easy for weeknight dinners
Kid-friendly and customizable
Pairs perfectly with fries, chips, or a side salad

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 slices Texas toast
2 tablespoons butter (for toasting bread)
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, pickles, sliced jalapeños

Equipment

Large skillet or frying pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Butter knife or pastry brush
Baking sheet (optional)

Prep Time

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic to the skillet.
Sauté for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in ketchup, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and mustard.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Toast the Texas Toast

Spread butter on both sides of each slice of Texas toast.
Toast in a skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

Spoon the beef mixture generously onto a slice of toasted Texas toast.
Top with cheese, pickles, or jalapeños if desired.
Cover with a second slice of toast or serve open-faced.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately while warm.
Pair with French fries, chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Texas Toast Sloppy Joes

Use thick Texas toast—it holds the filling better than thin bread.
Adjust sweetness and tang—add more ketchup or brown sugar to suit your taste.
Keep it messy—Sloppy Joes are meant to be fun and indulgent.
Customize toppings—cheese, pickles, jalapeños, or coleslaw all work great.
Make it ahead—prepare the beef mixture in advance and reheat before serving.

Variations

Spicy Sloppy Joes: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the beef mixture.
BBQ Sloppy Joes: Substitute ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor.
Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Open-Faced Version: Serve on a single slice of Texas toast topped with melted cheese.

Storage

Store leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Texas toast is best toasted fresh; reheating pre-toasted bread may soften it.

A Hearty, Flavorful Twist

Texas Toast Sloppy Joes are the ultimate comfort food—rich, savory, and satisfying. Thick, buttery toast paired with the tangy, meaty filling creates a sandwich that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or casual get-togethers. Messy, flavorful, and fun to eat, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Servings: 4–6